Acupuncture is a method of balancing and building the body’s life forces or Qi, which flows through particular pathways called meridians. Traditional Oriental Medicine views disease as the result of an imbalance or blockage of Qi flow. Very thin, sterile, stainless steel needles are inserted into specific points along meridians in order to disperse the blockage and/or mobilize the body’s natural immune response.
Acupuncture originated in China over 3,000 years and has been a primary system of healthcare ever since. Written documents from China, describing the use of acupuncture and herbs, date back to about 1,500 BCE. Archeological evidence of medicinal herbs and acupuncture needles date back to about 5,000 BCE.
Between 400 and 200 BCE, the Yellow Emperor’s Classic was written as a discussion on health and healing between the Emperor and his court physician. This treatise describes the use of a variety of modalities and outlines the basics of Oriental Medicine. The first line of treatment was dietary therapy and nutrition, the second was herbal therapy. Following that, the external therapies of acupuncture, moxibustion, massage, breathing, and exercise techniques were prescribed.
Historically, the relationship between patient and physician has always been important. The ‘great’ physicians were the ones who kept their patients from becoming ill. Even today, acupuncturists view the therapeutic relationship as a partnership in healing.
The initial interview and treatment will last for 90 minutes, with follow-up visits lasting about one hour. The Doctor of Oriental Medicine will do a complete medical in-take, which includes your medical history, health habits, and family history. Then they will listen to pulses on both wrists, check your tongue, and palpate various areas for tenderness. After arriving at a diagnosis, several techniques may be employed in the treatment.
Acupuncture needles – these are at least five times thinner than typical hypodermic needles, sterile, stainless steel that are inserted in specific acupuncture points. This is usually painless, but you may feel a dull ache or tingling sensation.
Moxibustion – Moxa is a Chinese herb (artemisia vulgaris or mugwort, in the chrysanthemum family) that is burned above the skin or on the needles.
Electric Stimulation – Very low level electrical current may be applied to the needle. This is often used for muscle spasms, analgesia, and to enhance point stimulation.
Tui Na or Chinese Massage – Often used to aid in relaxation and facilitate the movement of Qi.
Herbs – An herbal formula may be prescribed to reduce acute conditions or as a dietary supplement to build and fortify.
No! Acupuncturists follow the Environmental Protection Agency standards. The needles arrive new and sterile in a sterile packet. They are used once, placed in a biohazard container, and then disposed of by the medical waste facility.
Relax and allow the healing process to occur. Treatment does not end when the needles are removed – acupuncture has initiated a change within the body. To insure that positive patterns are fostered, take some time to relax directly after your treatment. Occasionally, symptoms may temporarily increase after treatment. This is known as a “healing crisis” – the body is rallying to move old blocks and patterns of disease so that a balanced flow energy can be re-established.
Because acupuncture regulates energy, it is important that when you arrive for treatment that you are not exhausted, not too hungry nor too full. Under no circumstances be under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs.
This varies on the type of illness and the individual. Generally acute illnesses can be treated successfully within a few treatments. Chronic problems that have taken years to develop will not be ‘cured’ overnight. Gradual change over time will reflect the restoration of the body’s strength and vitality.
